Paul Lambert was pleased that his players got "another game under their belts" as they saw off Shamrock Rovers 2-0 in their latest pre-season friendly.

Lambert was very satisfied with the result but happier to see Aleksandar Tonev and Jores Okore come through 45 minutes apiece after returning from injury.

The pair haven't been see in action since the training camp in Germany but the sight of the playmaking midfielder and collossal defender delighted Lambert and the thousands of fans who were in attendance to watch.

Lambert said: "The most important thing, which I have said from day one, is no injuries.

"It's another game under our belt, another clean sheet and another win. We have one more to go which will be another test. But this is another game under our belt.

"Alex and Jores have been out for a month so for them to get 45 minutes is important.

"Yes, the two goals were excellent. But the most important thing for me was the injury situation.

"It was a game we looked pretty comfortable in. It's another victory.

"We are getting there. We have one more week to go now."

Lambert was also impressed with the atmosphere as Villa returned to Ireland as part of their pre-season programme.

Fans have travelled from far and wide to watch their heroes and Lambert was certainly happy with the levels of support from the stands.

He added: "It was a full house again. That doesn't surprise me because of the following Villa have.

"The supporters are right behind us. The crowd is supporting us. It is appreciated."